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Sunday, February 3, 2013

French Inspired Romance

It's been quite awhile since I took the time to sit down and actually "create" something. My stash of old crosses, keys, and hearts have been calling to me to come spend an afternoon with them. Since Valentine's Day is just a little over a week away, I wanted to share a few of the new pendant necklaces that I put together yesterday.

Each one is different, and unique in it's own vintage way.

tarnished and well loved elements

with a past life...

mixed metals for some vintage romance

I've been trying to organize my cabinets in the studio, and I came across this wonderful old book that I'd forgotten about. A Wanderer in Paris which was first published in 1909 by British travel writer and essayist, E.V.Lucas.

This copy was a reprint from the early twenties. It's in pretty good condition, with just a few signs of wear. One of the best things about this travel anthology are the wonderful illustrations and images of French masterpieces.

City map of Paris

Lucas covers all the landmarks and attractions of Paris of the day, but I thought it peculiar that he didn't have any illustrations or images of our favorite, the Eiffel Tower, except this one small faint reference. You can see it to the left of the illustration below; misty and almost unrecognizable.

Here is what he writes about the modern day quintessential Paris icon:

"The merit of the Eiffel Tower is that it shows you not only Paris to the ultimate edges in every direction...but it shows you (almost) France too. How long the Eiffel Tower is to stand, I cannot say, but I for one shall feel sorry and bereft when it ceases to domineer over Paris. For though it is vulgar it is great, and it has come to be a symbol....The Tower and I came to Paris at the same time, in 1889."

Your new pendants are so pretty Debra!... I have my little birdnest one on today... I have to laugh that they used to (and I guess some still do) consider the Eiffel Tower "vulgar" because of it's height... I myself love it, especially because of my French ancestry... that's my French Romance for today!... I also love your vintage book!... xoxo Julie Marie

Debra,What lovely necklaces, dear friend!!!Isn't it wonderful to have a place to create???I'm getting anxious to see a bit more progress in the updating of Studio one, but as usual, progress is s l o w!!!Your book is magnificient!!! I have precious memories of Paris travels with my sister and niece. However, being afraid of heights, I didn't go inside the tower. They stated the views were breathtaking in every direction!!!Have a wonderful, creative weekend!!!Fondly,Pat

There is no better therapy to cure what ails you than time spent creating, and you've created some lovely vintage charm necklaces that look so very chic on Irma. Your old book is a fun read, too. I just love vintage illustrations.

Now why have I not thought to name my dressmaker's form? Poor thing has lived here almost a decade and remains nameless!

Hi Debra, I am taking some me time catching up with my friends before going to the nursing home for the rest of the day.I like your necklaces that you have made. They are so pretty and I love the vintage part. Have a wonderful day. Hugs and Prayers from Your Missouri Friend.

Beautiful creations, just love your combinations and especially the key and cross combinations as there is a corolation between the two for sure. Love your dressform, she looks so cute wearing all the works of art. Hope things are settling down at your house and you will have more time in your special creating place this year. Blessings, Linda

Beautiful creations, just love your combinations and especially the key and cross combinations as there is a corolation between the two for sure. Love your dressform, she looks so cute wearing all the works of art. Hope things are settling down at your house and you will have more time in your special creating place this year. Blessings, Linda

SO beautiful Debra...I'm drawn to the one with the tiny pearl. That soft contrasting texture really caught my eye. You certainly have a knack for pulling just the perfect mix of elements together in a unified balance. xoxo, Happy Valentine's! Andrea B.